The Experiences of Working Nurses with Illness

Abstract

Purpose: To clarify the experiences of nurses with illness in their work environment.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted involving 8 nurses with experience of working for more than 6 months with an illness, and the obtained data were analyzed using a qualitative and inductive approach.

Results: Twelve sub-categories and the following 5 categories were extracted: [Understand the reaction of surrounding people], [explore the balance between work and health], [make effective use of disease experience in nursing practice], [maintain commitment towards nursing as a job], and [accept one’s life with illness that sometimes takes an unexpected turn].

Conclusions: The results showed the need to explore the ways to help them continue working, while managing their health and discussing their work conditions with bosses or colleagues based on their wishes and situations. The results also indicate the need to establish a work environment where employees understand that working with illness is one of the various work styles, and can care for each other.